Causes and treatments of dysmenorrhea

Dysmenorrhea is usually caused by endocrine disorders, gynecological diseases, mental factors, bad living habits, genetic factors, etc. It can be relieved by hot compresses, taking painkillers, oral contraceptives, traditional Chinese medicine, and surgical treatment.

1. Endocrine disorders

Endocrine disorders are one of the most common causes of dysmenorrhea, usually characterized by excessive secretion of prostaglandins during menstruation, which triggers violent contraction of uterine smooth muscles. In this case, drugs such as ibuprofen sustained-release capsules and acetaminophen tablets can be used to inhibit prostaglandin synthesis, and at the same time, regulate hormone levels with a regular work and rest schedule and a balanced diet. You can usually drink ginger tea or rose tea appropriately to help relieve symptoms.

2. Gynecological diseases

Gynecological diseases such as endometriosis and adenomyosis can cause secondary dysmenorrhea. This type of dysmenorrhea may be accompanied by symptoms such as increased menstrual flow and painful sexual intercourse. After diagnosis, norethindrone tablets, levonorgestrel intrauterine system and other drugs can be used to control endometrial growth. Severe cases may require laparoscopic surgery to remove the lesions. It is recommended to have a gynecological examination every six months.

3. Mental factors

Long-term anxiety and depression may aggravate dysmenorrhea symptoms. Cerebral cortex dysfunction can affect the function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, resulting in a lowered pain threshold. In this case, you can relax your body and mind through meditation, yoga and other methods. If necessary, follow the doctor's advice and take drugs such as flupentixol and melitracen tablets to regulate autonomic nervous function.

4. Bad living habits

Bad habits such as overeating cold drinks, sitting still for long periods of time, and lack of sleep during menstruation can aggravate pelvic congestion and uterine ischemia. It is recommended to soak your feet in 45°C warm water for 20 minutes every day starting one week before menstruation, avoid consuming caffeine and alcohol, and maintain 30 minutes of moderate exercise every day, such as brisk walking or swimming, to help improve pelvic blood circulation.

5. Genetic factors

Studies have found that mothers with a history of severe dysmenorrhea are more likely to have daughters with dysmenorrhea. This may be related to genetically determined pain sensitivity and structural abnormalities of the uterus. Although genetic factors cannot be changed, symptoms can be effectively controlled through the above treatments. It is recommended to keep a menstrual diary to record pain levels and medication use.

Patients with dysmenorrhea should pay attention to keeping their abdomen warm, add deep-sea fish, nuts and other foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids to their diet, and reduce high-salt and high-fat diets. Start performing daily pelvic floor muscle exercises, such as Kegel exercises, a week before your period. If the pain seriously affects the quality of life or non-menstrual pain occurs, you should seek medical treatment in time to rule out organic diseases. When symptoms are mild, you can try pressing acupoints such as Sanyinjiao and Uterine Point to relieve discomfort.